tlombard wrote:
Freed Roger wrote:
Space tourism sounds cool in theory, but isn't it a controlled environment? You get to look out a small window at the earth and stars and experience weightlessness while drinking Tang. The rocket ride would be unique. Other than that, it seems like an experience that can pretty much be simulated here on earth.
A rocket ride and Tang? I'm sold even without the weightlessness and ability to look out of a window at the Earth. Who do I give my millions to?
Seriously though, I do get what you are saying about replicating the experience of looking out of the window here on Earth. I would have said the same thing not too many years ago but then I saw the Grand Canyon (just a hole in the ground, I've seen pictures before) and the eclipse last year (once again, I've seen pictures, who cares) in person. Those two experiences completely changed my attitude. Seeing those in person and not just in pictures or video was truly awe inspiring. When we walked up to the rim of the Grand Canyon, my mind almost broke, pictures and video just do not do it justice.
I'd have to imagine that seeing the Earth from orbit would be an even more amazing experience. If I had the means, I would do anything I could to get up there.
It would be neato to experience space, for sure. I get what you are saying. I'm sure I'd see some things out of that window that I couldn't from high def footage. FWIW, I am definitely a window seat passenger on planes, if I can help it.
However, your example of the Grand Canyon and eclipse sort of emphasize my point - whereas there you experience all the sensations of the place-besides sight. Much better than looking at a picture or going to omnimax.
I'd be curious to sense the silence in space. Or would mechanical white noise would mess that up?